As the new year arrives, so does the cold weather, with a light blanket of snow covering the area. My own New Year’s celebration was a quiet one at home, watching the ball drop. I wish everyone a healthy and happy New Year.
In veteran news, VFW leaders and members recently engaged crowds at the Army–Navy football game tailgates.
Along with VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore and Junior Vice Commander Glenn Umberger, staff from the VFW Washington Office and members from the Departments of Rhode Island and Maryland participated in two tailgate events focused on camaraderie and community outreach.
At the Travis Manion Foundation’s tailgate, VFW leadership and staff connected with key leaders and supporters in the military and veteran communities.
Meanwhile, members of VFW Rhode Island Post 152 hosted their “Mother of All Tailgates” fundraiser to benefit Homes For Our Troops. VFW members from the Department of Maryland played a major role in outreach at both events, helping spread VFW’s message of service, advocacy and camaraderie to new audiences.
If you are a veteran and qualify for VFW membership, please consider joining. To learn more about our organization and our work advocating for veterans, visit VFW.org.
For information specifically about VFW Post 1545, please email vfwpost1545, and we will be happy to tell you more about our post. This past December, we visited Stratton VA Hospital and donated $500 worth of Hannaford gift cards to be distributed to veterans in need.
Last week, I mentioned that I would be sharing information about one of our Korean War veterans; however, he was hospitalized with COVID and unable to meet. I was, however, able to speak with our one and only remaining World War II veteran.
I would like to introduce Mr. Peter O’Brien of Hensonville, who will turn 100 years old on August 8, 2026. He grew up in East Jewett, attended grammar school in a small local schoolhouse, and later graduated from Tannersville High School.
At just 17 years old, Pete joined the U.S. Navy. After completing basic training, he became a motor machinist and electrician.
His first ship was the USS Kidd (DD-661). While sailing toward Okinawa, the ship came under attack by kamikaze planes. Pete was stationed near the bow when a plane struck the stern, killing approximately seven crew members who were manning guns.
After the ship was damaged and sent for repairs, Pete was transferred to a minesweeper—one that was built entirely of wood.
Interestingly, the ship was constructed in Kingston, New York. When I asked why it was made of wood, he explained that wooden ships were less likely to trigger mines than steel vessels.
As the war came to an end, Pete served in Japan, where he was awarded the Japan Occupation Ribbon. He later traveled to the Philippines before boarding a ship back to the United States.
One memory he shared was the long period during which he and his mother had no contact. The relief he felt when a cab finally brought him home was something he never forgot.
Pete served as Commander of VFW Post 1545 and held every officer position at one time or another. In those days, the post had only a few World War I veterans, with most members being from World War II.
I met Pete about 25 years ago when I first joined the post. After returning home from the war, he started his own electrical business and, by all accounts, still considers himself an electrician today.
He believes the reason he, and others, live long lives is because they love their work. He did not stop until lately as he enjoyed helping people. His mind and attitude today are remarkable. Quite a gentleman to say the least.
They often say the “Greatest Generation” were truly special. I am grateful and honored to call Pete my comrade. May God bless him. Stay well, my friend.
Please keep all of our servicemen and women who are still serving in your thoughts and prayers along with all of are veterans.
God Bless America.
Marc Farmilette, PDC ~ Post 1545 Commander
Pete O’Brien – WWII Navy Veteran, Past Post 1545 Commander
0 comments:
Post a Comment